Helena Firearm Lawyer

Firearm Attorney in Helena, MT

Facing firearm-related charges is understandably intimidating and stressful for anyone. Regardless of the circumstances, it’s crucial to remember that you have rights, which should be honored throughout the criminal court process. Be sure to consult a skilled Helena firearm lawyer right away after being arrested or charged. At Delli Bovi, Martin, & Reed, LLC, our criminal defense attorneys can navigate the legal system to compellingly defend you.

Looking at Gun Laws in Helena, MT

Montana has some of the most lenient gun laws nationwide. For example, you are not required to purchase a permit or be subjected to a background check to purchase a firearm. Concealed carry permits are also generally not required, and open carrying a firearm is not strictly regulated.

Montana has one of the highest rates of gun ownership in the country, with 66.3 percent of adults owning a firearm. This is only rivaled by Wyoming, with 66.2 percent of the state’s population owning a gun. Following closely behind is Alaska, where 64.5 percent of adults own a firearm. However, even in a gun-friendly state, it’s possible for you to face criminal charges for firearm violations.

Montana firearm offenses can range from simple misdemeanors to serious felonies. Whether you have been charged with a gun crime because of prohibited possession issues, violence, or unlawful use, it’s important for you to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. Depending on the details of the crime, potential penalties for a firearm conviction include fines, jail or prison time, a loss of your gun rights, and a permanent criminal record.

Misdemeanor gun cases in Helena, MT, are likely to be processed at the Helena Municipal Court, located at the Law & Justice Center, 228 Broadway Ave., in Helena, MT. Felony charges may instead be processed by the Lewis and Clark County District Court, located at the Law & Justice Center, 228 Broadway Ave., Helena, MT.

Types of Firearm Crimes We Handle

Our firearm crimes and concealed carry defense law firm can represent you and advocate on your behalf, no matter how simple or complex the details of your case may seem. There are several gun violations a person may face in Montana, for which we can build a strong defense approach:

• Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. It is a felony offense for an individual who is prohibited from owning a gun, such as a convicted felon, to purposefully or knowingly purchase or possess a firearm.
• Carrying a weapon while under the influence. It is prohibited by law to purposefully or knowingly carry a concealed weapon in a public space while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any other intoxicating substance.
• Possession or use of a machine gun in connection with illegal activity. One can be charged with a firearm violation if they possess or use a machine gun while carrying out or attempting to carry out a violent crime.
• Carrying a concealed firearm into a restricted area. No matter if they have a concealed carry permit, it is illegal for most gun owners to bring their firearms into certain public areas unless given prior authorization. Some restricted areas include government buildings, courtrooms, and public schools.

FAQs

Q: How Strict Are the Gun Laws in Helena, MT?

A: Montana has some of the most permissive gun laws across the United States. For example, while the state does allow residents to apply for a concealed weapon permit, it’s not technically required for a gun owner to have one to conceal carry. However, the individual must be legally eligible to possess a firearm.

Q: What Should I Do If I’ve Been Arrested for a Gun Crime in Montana?

A: If you’ve been arrested for a gun crime in Montana, it’s advised that you exercise your right to remain silent and refrain from divulging information to law enforcement. Of course, you should be cooperative and provide vital details, but try to avoid offering up unnecessary information.

Instead, you should contact a firearm defense lawyer as soon as possible and stay quiet until your legal counsel arrives. This way, you can avoid accidentally incriminating yourself or making the situation worse.

Q: Can a Firearm Conviction Impact My Gun Rights in Montana?

A: Yes, it’s possible for a firearm crime conviction to impact your gun rights. One of the potential penalties of committing a gun crime in Montana, particularly for felony-level firearm violations, is being stripped of your right to purchase or own firearms.

While certain convictions can result in being permanently prohibited from possessing a gun, it may be possible, under other circumstances, to reinstate your gun rights. Consult a seasoned criminal attorney to learn more about your situation.

Q: How Much Does a Firearms Attorney Charge in Helena, MT?

A: In Montana, how much a firearms defense attorney may charge can depend on several factors. Legal fees tend to vary based on how complex your case is, the experience of the law firm, and how long the case ends up taking. During an initial consultation, you can ask the lawyer how much you can expect to pay in fees.

Q: Can a Lawyer Reduce or Dismiss Gun Charges in MT?

A: Yes, an adept criminal lawyer can work to reduce the gun charges against you or even get the case dismissed altogether. Whether this is possible depends on the available evidence and the details of the arrest itself, among other factors.

It’s never guaranteed that your legal representation can minimize the charges against you or get the case dropped, but your strongest chances of a favorable outcome come through the efforts of a qualified and experienced defense lawyer.

Seek Strong Firearm Legal Defense in Helena, MT

At Delli Bovi, Martin, & Reed, LLC, our team of qualified and seasoned criminal attorneys has a deep understanding of the nuances of Montana’s firearms laws. With a proven record of defending clients across the state, we can help you if you’re facing firearm charges. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation with a skilled criminal lawyer.